초록 ▼

A circumneural electrode assembly having a pair of spaced-apart and oppositely directed helical portions which can be opened by an insertion tool to fit the assembly over a peripheral or cranial nerve. One or more conductive electrodes on the inner surfaces of the helical portions intimately contact

A circumneural electrode assembly having a pair of spaced-apart and oppositely directed helical portions which can be opened by an insertion tool to fit the assembly over a peripheral or cranial nerve. One or more conductive electrodes on the inner surfaces of the helical portions intimately contact the nerve surface to deliver electrical stimulating signals, or alternatively, to block nerve conduction or to sense evoked potentials. The surgically implanted assembly is stable in position on the nerve, and is installed with a minimum of nerve manipulation and possible resulting trauma. The assembly preserves the advantages of previously disclosed spiral electrodes, while greatly simplifying installation, particularly in a nerve which is deeply recessed in overlying muscle or arteries.

대표청구항 ▼

An electrode assembly for implantation on a nerve, comprising: a flexible supporting matrix of dielectric material, the matrix forming a pair of spaced-apart and oppositely directed helical portions, each helical portion extending circumferentially at least 360 degrees and less than 720 degrees; a f

An electrode assembly for implantation on a nerve, comprising: a flexible supporting matrix of dielectric material, the matrix forming a pair of spaced-apart and oppositely directed helical portions, each helical portion extending circumferentially at least 360 degrees and less than 720 degrees; a flexible, conductive electrode secured to an inner surface of one of the helical portions; and a flexible connection means connected to the electrode and extending from the matrix for connection to an electronic device; the assembly having a central passage longitudinally therethrough and sized to conform to the external dimension of the nerve, whereby a tool can be inserted in the passage to expand the helical portions to open a lateral passage along the full length of the assembly to enable the assembly to be fitted over and closed upon the nerve.